2 August 2007 Edition

Launch of Foyle Pride festival

David McCartney, Seán Martin and Ruth Noonan of the Rainbow Project with Deputy First Minister, Sinn Féin’s Martin McGuinness at Free Derry Corner, which has been painted pink for the occasion, as part of events to launch the Foyle Pride Fes

Sinn Féin Equality spokesperson Martina Anderson speaking after the launch of Foyle Pride festival this week which will run from the 13-18 August said that it was important to promote inclusiveness and encourage respect for equality and diversity within society.Speaking on Wednesday Anderson said:“I want to welcome this event to Derry and to the North of Ireland for the first time in five years. I send best wishes to Derry’s lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities for Foyle Pride 2007.“I believe it is important to promote inclusiveness and to encourage respect for equality and diversity within society. I believe that organisations such as the Rainbow Project go a long way towards helping to change attitudes amongst society and promoting respect and inclusiveness. I fully support the work carried out by the group.“Foyle Pride week will help us celebrate diversity with the understanding that it is our differences which make us extraordinary and seek out those who are on the fringes and to take practical, concrete steps to ensure their inclusion in society. In Derry we need to be communicating the message of mutual respect; to appreciate others for what they are, for how they are different and to respect them for such.”